The beaches have been alive with action lately! Surf perch are showing up just about

everywhere. Most are palm-sized, which makes for some fun on light gear, but we’re still waiting

on those bigger models to move in. Bait has been scattered throughout the surf, yet the halibut

bite has slowed down with fewer quality fish being caught.

Corbina have been stealing the spotlight. Anglers are hooking into fish in the 16 to 20 inch

range, especially when working sand crab beds with a Carolina rig and 10 lb test. Mussel has

also been effective, but it comes with a tradeoff. It will get the attention of Corbina, Croaker,

Bass and Sargo, but it also attracts plenty of bycatch like guitarfish, bat rays, and other surprise

catches that can turn your session into an unexpected battle.

Sand bass and spotted bay bass, better known as spotties, have also been biting hard. These

fish are putting up a solid fight and adding even more variety to the SoCal bite right now. The

one pictured here is a beautiful 17-inch sand bass, proof that there are quality fish in the mix if

you put in the time.

Here’s a tip to keep in mind: target those transition zones where rocks meet sand. Fish are

more concentrated in these spots, and there are still some nice spotfin croakers being caught

too.

After a stretch of hot days in the high 70s and 80s, the coast has started to cool down. With that

shift, more Corbina are sliding into the skinny water during tide swings. Keep your eyes on the

shallows from low to high tide and you might see them cruising right at your feet.

Stay safe, keep fishing, and enjoy what the SoCal surf has to offer. Tight lines, anglers!

For more fishing reports, surf action, and tips, check out our page @vividsnares